Home Water Filtration

Filtration is a physical process that occurs when liquids, gases, dissolved or suspended matter adhere to the surface of, or in the pores of, an absorbent medium.

It is important to take into consideration all the contaminants found in water, especially nowadays, with overpopulation and the high demand for water to be clean and all the chemicals added to reach the demand. Water filtration is becoming more of a necessity in our homes.

There are a few steps to take when choosing which filtration system is right for you and your household.

Know your water source.

To know what your water source needs are, you’ll need to know the quality of the water being provided to you. Know what your needs are when it comes to taste, odour and of course health issues. Know if your water comes from a well, or cistern or if it comes from a public system.

What is your reasoning for wanting to filter?

Is it an odour or taste issue? Is your water hard?  There are a few reasons people want to filter and purify their water. Some may have religious practices, others have nitrates in their well water. Lead and arsenic can also be found in water and therefore needs to be addressed for health reasons. Having already established health issues is also a good reason to

Remember that all filters of a particular type use the same technology, so you should read the label carefully.  Also be mindful that treatment systems are 100% effective in removing all contaminants from water, and you need to know what you want your filter to do before you go on the hunt for one for your household.

Types for your home include  

Water filter pitches:  these are super affordable. Water enters through the top and must filter through the built-in filter. Depending on the size of your household, these can become a hassle due to the small pore size and filters needing to be replaced regularly

Refrigeration filters: these are a great filtration option. The built-in water filter from the fridge may also be used to make ice and isn’t taking up additional space. Be sure to replace these filters regularly.

Faucet mounted filters: this type of filter is really easy to install and goes easier on the filter as your ability to switch between filtered and non-filtered water. The only issue may be that your particular faucet won’t accommodate the filter and they do have the potential to slow the water flow down.

Faucet-integrated or built-in filters: these filters require professional and often expensive installation. These filters are great in that they’re hidden and can be worked from your sink area. The water here can also easily be switched back and forth from filtered to unfiltered.

Under- sink filters: this type of filter is installed underneath the sink and sends water through a pipe to a faucet dedicated to only that filtration system. They’re great because they don’t take up counter space and can filter large amounts of water. Be prepared to do some modifications to accommodate this system and know that it can be costly.

Whole house water treatments: if you’re serious about your water filtration, whole house water treatment is great if you’re wanting all water entering the house to be treated. This is a great option if your water is hard and for volatile organic compounds. Know that it can be costly, requires modifications, professional servicing and maintenance and the filtering that removes chlorine allows for the growth of germs in all the pipes in your house.

Shop around and do your research before buying a filtration system. Know what is best for you and your household’s needs and wants.